A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Norfolk vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a blue collar, maritime, and authentic city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a laid back, relaxing, and adventure-filled island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Norfolk and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Norfolk and Big Island of Hawaii are both popular with visitors, Big Island of Hawaii has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Big Island of Hawaii is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Norfolk is known for its nightlife. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Norfolk and is popular for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also home to the Waipio Valley Overlook. Norfolk is popular for its naval base and military presence.

How is Norfolk different from Big Island of Hawaii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Big Island of Hawaii and Norfolk. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii?

Both Norfolk and Big Island of Hawaii have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Norfolk is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

Big Island of Hawaii offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several local museums around the island such as the Hulihe'e Palace and 'Imiloa Astronomy Center. There's also the Hawaii Plantation Museum and the Lyman House Museum.

Is the Food Better in Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Norfolk and Big Island of Hawaii offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

Norfolk offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Big Island of Hawaii has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. It can be challenging to find local restaurants that aren't catering to the tourist crowd, but when you do you'll be rewarded with great local dishes. Seafood, poke bowls, and shave ice are all popular.

Is Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Norfolk is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Norfolk has a few options to choose from. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

Most people don't head to Big Island of Hawaii specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The nightlife scene is very chill with many local places that have live music and drinks. You won't find any major nightclubs, but there are karaoke bars and laid back breweries. The most options are found in Hilo and Kailua-Kona.

Is Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Norfolk is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Big Island of Hawaii is a great choice. There are a number of beautiful luxury resorts on the island like the Hilton Waikoloa Village, the Four Seasons Resort, and Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort.

Norfolk is not a resort destination.

Is Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Norfolk is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Big Island of Hawaii a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. There are a number of beautiful snorkeling spots where you'll see beautiful fish and sometimes even sea turtles. A bucket list experience is also diving or snorkeling with the manta rays, which will take your breath away.

Norfolk is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Norfolk is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Big Island of Hawaii. This is a younger island than most in Hawaii, so the beaches are varied and diverse. You'll find white sand beaches, black volcanic sand beaches, and even green sand. There are also areas where the lava rock reaches the ocean. Hapuna Beach is a favorite as is Honl's Beach.

Norfolk is not a beach destination.

Is Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. However, Norfolk is not a hiking destination.

People visit Big Island of Hawaii specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The island is filled with miles of spectacular hiking trails. They'll take you to iconic waterfalls, world-renowned viewpoints, and through fields of lava rocks. Many people spend days hiking in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, but there are also impressive hikes along the Kona Coast.

Norfolk is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii?

Big Island of Hawaii is a great destination for shopping. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Big Island of Hawaii is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many local artisan shops on the island, particular in Hilo, Historic Kailua Village and along the Kohala Coast. You'll find handmade quilts, wooden carved products, and handcrafted jewelry.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Norfolk. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

Is Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Big Island of Hawaii is a very family-friendly destination. Families will enjoy the laid back island vibe. You can spend some time on the beach and then head inland to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. If your kids are adventurous, the island is a great place to dive or snorkel with manta rays. There are also great hikes, helicopter rides, and luaus.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit destination for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

Big Island of Hawaii makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy a relaxed beach vibe will love a visit to this laid back island. There are upscale resorts as well as independent hotels that have a more personal style. The island also has stunning views, impressive hikes, and countless opportunities for romance.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

Is Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Big Island of Hawaii is a great destination for backpackers. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Big Island of Hawaii. This is one of the most popular islands for backpackers. It has a mellow atmosphere that appeals to young travelers. There are also hostels on the island, but transportation can be challenging.

Norfolk is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This is an often overlooked area for backpackers.

Is Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Norfolk and Big Island of Hawaii.

Public transit is generally limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Big Island of Hawaii. There is a bus service that connects Kona and Hilo. It's called the Hele-On and there are both north and south routes.

Is Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Norfolk is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.

Norfolk is somewhat walkable. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable city. It's the largest of the Hawaiian islands and a car is necessary if you want to see the whole thing.

For even more information, also check out Is Norfolk Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii or Norfolk?

How long in Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii?

Norfolk and Big Island of Hawaii both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Big Island of Hawaii than Norfolk because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Norfolk, and 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Norfolk. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Big Island of Hawaii, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Norfolk. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Big Island of Hawaii that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Norfolk if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Big Island of Hawaii.

One day in Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Norfolk. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Norfolk has to offer.

In Big Island of Hawaii, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii?

Norfolk is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Big Island of Hawaii, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Norfolk for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Norfolk. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Big Island of Hawaii has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii?

The maritime destination of Norfolk offers nightlife and food. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Island of Hawaii. In Big Island of Hawaii, you'll find museums and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Norfolk and Big Island of Hawaii, we can see that Big Island of Hawaii is more expensive. And not only is Norfolk much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Norfolk would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Norfolk and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Big Island of Hawaii would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Big Island of Hawaii than you might in Norfolk.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Norfolk Expensive? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii in the Summer?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Norfolk during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Norfolk for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Norfolk is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii in the summer. The daily temperature in Norfolk averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Norfolk. In the summer, Norfolk often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Norfolk gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 169 hours of full sun.

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. Norfolk usually gets less rain in July than Big Island of Hawaii. Norfolk gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Norfolk and Big Island of Hawaii. Many visitors come to Norfolk in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Norfolk is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Norfolk in October average around 62°F (16°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

In Norfolk, it's very sunny this time of the year. Norfolk usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during autumn. Norfolk gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Norfolk usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Norfolk gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Norfolk as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Most visitors come to Norfolk for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Norfolk can be very cold during winter. In January, Norfolk is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Norfolk average around 39°F (4°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Norfolk often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Big Island of Hawaii. Norfolk gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 158 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Norfolk usually gets less rain in January than Big Island of Hawaii. Norfolk gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Norfolk or Big Island of Hawaii in the Spring?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Norfolk are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

Norfolk is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the spring. The daily temperature in Norfolk averages around 58°F (14°C) in April, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. Norfolk usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during spring. Norfolk gets 253 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. In April, Norfolk usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Norfolk gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Norfolk